How to add sleeves and get rid of a cold shoulder!

[@TravisAndCarma]

"A slice of heaven attached to a piece of magic." --My favorite line. Thanks for showing your ideas, your mistakes, and how you fix them. It is a inspiring to watch the joy you have while sewing. Thank you!

[@cathyswope5174]

I volunteer at a fix it clinic where we teach people how to repair thing including clothes. I love showing people how to hand sew for repairs and upcycling because you can do hand sewing without a machine. And it is just as fast a surprising amount of the time. As for cold shoulder tops, i didn't like them when the were super popular so yay to finding ways to get rid of them!

[@CatherineSews]

Volunteering at a fix it clinic sounds like great fun and very rewarding! Good for you!!

[@melaniesumner167]

Me, neither!!🙄😁

[@ElaineHatfield-l7z]

Both turned out very nicely, but I love the two blouses that were put together. That was a gorgeous pairing.

[@aminahawa7237]

Oh my goodness Catherine, you are a super amazing sewer. I absolutely love what you have done to these tops. I've tried to put sleeves into a dress and it did not come so good. I was looking for KZbin videos in adding sleeves, but none were as good as yours. Keep sending some more videos on different sleeves attaching love it, love it, love it ❤❤

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks, Amina! That's so sweet to hear!

[@renaebettenhausen3611]

I have never liked "the cold shoulder", and I refuse to buy such blouses. I have seen some that would otherwise be cute, but, nope. REALLY! I won't wear ripped jeans either, and I know that I'm not alone in hating these trends thank you for providing a possiblecure for the ills of the cold shoulder..

[@Joani161]

@@renaebettenhausen3611 Thise torn up jeans would go to the "rag bag" to used for cleaning or ggarage.

[@susanohrstrom6120]

I sew everyday, and for even more relaxation, I watch your videos. You have a very good calm way of explaining things. Thanks!❤

[@cynthiaradding887]

A tip for threading beading needles; wax the tip of the thread and hold the tiniest bit pinched between the thumb and finger of your non dominant hand. Bring the needle eye over the thread so you are essentially threading the needle onto the thread.....and if you don't thread it right away, try turning the needle over ( there's a front and back to a needle eye). Love what you did to both blouses!

[@CatherineSews]

Great tip, thanks, Cynthia!

[@jesshothersall]

Wow I had no idea needles had fronts and backs. Did you know thread has a right and wrong way too? If you run your fingers down a piece of thread, it will feel smoother one way, and that's the way to sew so it won't flick itself into a knot?

[@jemtebelle]

I got so excited to see another Catherine Sews video that I liked it before I watched it! But then I watched it! That info about the hair tie and measuring to figure out how to draw the sleeve. Then just drawing out the sleeve top like it's no big deal! You make it so easy! 💚

[@CatherineSews]

Your comment brought a smile to my day!

[@michellemabelle100]

The second one is beautiful, but I really love that first one. I so don't like the whole "cold shoulder" style (I didn't know that's what it was called until I saw this video) and you improved that shirt 1000% by turning it into a pretty, lacy tank top!

[@fives5571]

You’re so creative and an incredible inspiration! I’ve been watching your channel for about 6 months and finally refashioned a skirt I thrifted years ago but had only worn twice. I loved the fabric of the original maxi but felt dowdy in it. I cut it in pieces and made a knee length skirt with a ruffle flounce. I just love it! Thank you Catherine for giving me courage to give it a try!

[@FitFabandFrugalOver50]

Sounds really nice! Good for you. ❤

[@CatherineSews]

Wow, I just love hearing that! Thanks so much for sharing your success!

[@lesleyweaver2514]

I share your passion for upcycling as it’s now called, at 67 I’ve been doing it for years out of necessity and now I do it for fun and satisfaction! I don’t buy anything new just underwear & tights etc. These tops look beautiful on you, especially the sleeved one and your tips and tricks are great! Thank you and well done you! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@susanperson7620]

In the world of beading needles, there is a kind called "big eyed needles". They are heavenly. I bought mine online. ALSO "beading thread" is super strong. Thanks for the ideas and hints. Your knowledge and teaching style is great!

[@lindap9079]

I always come away with some helpful information when I watch your channel. The hair tie may be my favorite so far.

[@CatherineSews]

Oh, yes! I'm so glad you like that one! I sew alone 90% of the time, so little tricks like that are a life saver.

[@susanmason5747]

Have been following your videos for a while and have tried some of the ideas, all turned out great. You make them so easy to follow and you’re so inspiring with everyday pieces of clothing. I am in the UK, we have charity shops here and not the huge thrift shops as in the US, it can take a lot of hunting in the various shops to find interesting items but it’s fun. Thank you and please don’t stop.

[@bleudragon9]

Perfect timing ... I'm just about to put sleeves in. Nothing as spectacular as that blouse though! Also thank you for keeping in the video any missteps and redos, that makes me feel more confident to try out harder, more creative challenges. Love your thrifting creativity.

[@lindagoesel3815]

Who says you can't teach an old sewer new tricks?! Love your informative and entertaining videos. Sometimes you have me laughing so hard. I have watched this video several times but I have a tendency to watch them all several times. First if you never got an answer, the crochet edging on that one top is called filet crochet. Secondly you have given me so many ideas to up date and refurbish my wardrobe. I am 79 have been sewing since I was about 6 or 7, self taught. And have learned through patterns and mistakes😂. But you have helped with bravery. Never would I have cut into a sweater. I do now! Thanks again and keep sewing.

[@claireroberts5051]

Lovely job. I really appreciated the detail of measuring inner and outer arm lengths.

[@lorrainedempsey3320]

This white blouse might just be the all time best upcycled, that I have seen you make. It looks gorgeous 🤩!!!!!!! WOW 😳

[@jeanmcintyre4662]

I used this idea to combine a sweater with a sparkly metalic thread through it and a beautiful but too sheer shirt with poofy sleeves. They came together beautifully and now I love to wear it all the time. Thanks for the great idea. I would have never had the courage to put it together if you hadn't made this video.

[@Mumsie_Dee]

I love both pieces! You inspired me to fix my cold shoulder tops, I already have them in my ‘to donate box’, but I’ll try and fish them out and see if I can fix the sleeves and hopefully wear them again. Thanks Catherine 😘

[@lynnephelps2370]

THANK YOU!!!! I have so many tops that need sleeves modifications and I can't afford many new clothes. So thankful. Your videos are wonderful as they make upcycling so approachable! If you ever make another sleeves video, I'd love ideas on extending short sleeves in a way that looks intentional when you don't have matching fabric. I've thought about cutting the sleeves to insert a color block section then adding the original end of the sleeves to the bottom maybe? But then I might need to do similar to body? I love how you share your creative thought process.

[@CatherineSews]

Yes, I think your idea for lengthening sleeves is a good one! Thanks for your sweet comment!

[@kellywilliams529]

You could also insert a lace panel, if it would look appropriate with the rest of the shirt.

[@sheritahuseman9514]

I have long arms and have always had issues with sleeve and pant length …this may not be what you’re talking about but have enjoyed wearing “wrist warmers” this is also a reason I have taught myself to sew,but I so enjoy your instruction and up cycling so many new tricks love the hair and measuring!

[@maryjrucker2485]

I love your upcycle ideas. Learning so much from you. So glad I found your station

[@onlyyours725]

Knowing now, I can update all those cold shoulder sleeves!! Everyone I know gave me their cold shoulder sleeve shirts, of course I kept them. Now I'll be wearing them!! Love this video!

[@Jan-iv7kh]

Catherine I just love your channel. I'm in the UK and discovered you just a few weeks ago. I'm not confident to try transformations yet, but have removed a breast pocket on a linen t-shirt which I don't think flatters a larger bust which I'd not have even attempted before. Like you, I don't find higher necklines comfortable. I have a wardrobe full of shirts I don't wear because of this, so am planning to try your lowering of the neckline very soon. I'll start with the one I love least! Thanks for the inspiration.

[@CatherineSews]

That's great to hear, Jan! Let me know how your neckline transformations go!

[@viktoriabalensiefen8911]

What i love and try to do for myself while sewing : talking to myself so positively and encouraging as you do :-)

[@CatherineSews]

Awww, I love that! Yes, please be kind to yourself!

[@emilysmith2784]

I love your channel so much. Every video is just full of little gems of knowledge. Hair type to hold the tape, amazing. Measuring with your arm out for more range of motion, genius. Thank you for sharing your skills ❤

[@CatherineSews]

OMG, Emily, I just finished a really busy day at work, and your comment just raised my spirits so much! Thank you!!

[@ginahayes6169]

Wow, very very creative! These two blouses are beautiful, very impressed with the one you added sleeves to!

[@TeamD2012]

That hair tie hack is brilliant! That final top is gorgeous!

[@paulabrown8919]

You make amazingly useful videos. I have just refashioned a shirt using one of your previous videos as a guide. It turned out much better than expected. The sleeve drafting portion in this video will come in handy. Thank you so much for making these videos.

[@Hremo_158]

Catherine, these turned out Gorgeous!! Love them Both! I must admit I was panicking when you almost sewed the wrong sides together 👀👀😅 I was "sew" 😉 relieved when you caught it! 😅

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, that's so cute. Whenever I make a mistake, I wonder how many people see it happening before I do! Thanks for being right there with me!

[@Tess2Hrt]

Love watching your videos It really explains how to do things that I have never known or forgot. Thank you

[@carlyk502]

Catherine I love your videos, you are hilarious. I can always rely on you to brighten my day by making me laugh. Keep it up!

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, that's so lovely to hear, Charlena! Thank you for appreciating my goofier moments!

[@mammastreed5070]

Love this! Love up-cycling, refashioning items as well! Marrying 2 pieces into one is a favorite of mine! Haven’t tried sleeves on a sleeveless top though! 🤔 Might have to challenge myself to do so! Also, I love hand-sewing little projects, it’s so relaxing for me! Oddly enough I love hand disassembling items too! We were recently on a 3 hour car trip and I took that time to disassemble a pair of pants my son wants made into pants his size! Not quite done, but it kept me from going stir crazy sitting still that long!😜😊 Thanks for your lovely videos!

[@nancyingram966]

I love BOTH tops!! Thank you for the inspiration!!

[@sarawelder1]

I am so impressed! I love the idea of using a hair tie to anchor the tape measure. you are so brave to cut up a $20 top.... it would paralize me! thank you for all your tips

[@judychapman1868]

Catherine, both those blouses are so, so cute, great job! ❤❤Judy❤❤

[@ZeroGravity514]

Loving the end of the video!! Your awesome personality shines through!!

[@CatherineSews]

Haha, thank you! I debated as to whether to leave that bit of goofiness in or edit it out. I’m glad I left it in!

[@janetpaden8878]

I have been watching your channel for some time now. I have learned so much from you! I have recently changed a t-shirt neckline after watching one of your videos. Thank you!

[@Sarah-pw5vl]

Beautiful re-makes! Bugle beads 😱😱😱 Takes me back to painstakingly spending hours sewing them on to my thrifted bridal veil to match my dress. It wasn't until I arrived on the big day that I realised I didnt have it on my head😂😂😂.❤ your content @CatherineSews ❤from uk

[@CatherineSews]

Oh no! Really!? You forgot to wear your veil after spending so much time on it!? That actually sounds like something I would do!

[@janep2776]

Oh wow, they are both gorgeous. I’ve learnt so much from watching this ❤️

[@esperansaloughran693]

I understand how to do the sleeves and the markings for the top of the sleeve and bottom of the sleeve, and your explanation of the right angles at top and side make that slope and now i know how to draw it in and cut it out. Thanx to your expert explanations and you really have a talent for relaying that joy and information to us newbees, i am making sleeves of some vintage brocade and satin russhing into sleeves and will attach those to a jean vest i picked, and i really feel confident now that it will work. I saw so many videos of this process, but you finally explained so simply that i feel confident now. Thankyou so much@

[@angie1WC]

I really love and appreciate you helping me on my journey into sewing. I purchased my first dress at a resale store yesterday ( that was too big) and am wearing it now. Thanks to you . Your my No. 1 teacher. A+

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

Quarter marking elastic with friction pen! That looks so much easier than pins that I use cause that's what I've always done! Friction pens weren't invented when I started pen might be seen and chalk rubbed off. Love the shirts!

[@CatherineSews]

Those Frixion pens are the BEST!!

[@debbiestherapy]

Love these projects! I just donated several cold shoulder tops- I could have possibly turned them into tanks! Oh well- now someone else can have a project 😊

[@esperansaloughran693]

You are so right ...up cycling makes us so joyful, and others as well.

[@karens1967]

Thank you! This is a wonderful tutorial. I have a question. When you were sewing the French seam, you pointed out that there wasn't a lot of the very sheer fabric for the feed dogs to grab onto. Is there any reason why you couldn't add some sheer paper, like maybe tracing paper, to add a little bit of bulk and then carefully tear it away?

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you! Yes, I think that would work too, but it’s maybe easier to just hold the threads.

[@janscott821]

I can’t tell you how much I love both tops! ❤

[@marywise2014]

Love, love, love! Amazing upcycling and sewing! ❤

[@carlahumphrey6258]

Another beautiful remake. Thanks to your excellent instructions I recently remade a thrifted linen shirt. Shortened the length, added darts for fit, and repositioned 3/4 cuffs to elbow length. A winner.

[@CatherineSews]

Wow, that makes me so proud! You deserve all the credit, but still, I'm proud! 😍

[@heard3879]

Wow, I learned so much from this video, because I am barely beyond beginner stage in sewing.

[@FitFabandFrugalOver50]

You are so cute! Loved that ending. I really like the sleeves you added to the tank top. I actually preferred the other top as a cold shoulder top as I thought it looked a tad more elegant and glam, but that’s just me. Oh, I was taught a making a knot hack using one hand by a baby sitter a zillion years ago: she said to line up the two ends as you did, then lick your pointer finger and rub the thread ends together with that finger and thumb a couple of times, pull down and then a knot will form at end of threads. You can then rub the knot a couple of more times and pull down to make it bigger. Usually there is no thread tail below the knot. 😅 It never fails me!

[@CatherineSews]

Yes! That's exactly how I tie knots, but for some reason my students always find it so hard to learn that way, so when I teach it, I just put the tail through twice.

[@FitFabandFrugalOver50]

@@CatherineSews interesting! You would think with all their texting, etc.,, they would have the dexterity. 😆

[@angelagreen4751]

Love both tops and how you went about changing them, definitely food for thought, thank you 🤗

[@kierstenridgway4634]

Such a nice job. Worth it! My friends always say that this is tedious work. I don't feel that way at all. Gratifying is how I would describe it.

[@robinr6399]

These changes are spectacular! Beautiful work!

[@judytyler1870]

I like the upstyle of the cold shoulder blouse, too but the beaded top is my fave!

[@susanbuck1327]

I have never liked the cold shoulder tops. I did buy a couple that were at a drastically reduced price and got rid of the stupid cold shoulder and just made it into a sleeveless top because I liked the top otherwise. I have never added sleeves to anything though because I really didn't know how. I live all of your videos and am so happy to have discovered you a few months ago.

[@zeckisnadelqualereien]

Oh what a wonderful idea, thanks for so much inspiration, you give me great ideas! Greetings from Cologne/Germany Karin

[@CorwinDriskill]

I love love love watching your videos!!!! You make me feel like I can do it too. Both tops turned out fabulous

[@christinegraham2579]

I have been learning so very much from watching your videos, thank you for sharing your immense knowledge! ❤❤❤

[@luvcampinbc]

I always find you so inspiring. As a now early retired plus size woman I have many sleeveless tops that fit me which I wore with cardies at work. That is no longer my style but since they fit well I didnt have the heart to donate. I think.I would like to try my hand at upcycling some fabric to add sleeves on. Thank you for the tutorial on creating the sleeve insert ( armhole). Recently I saw one using sheer scarf fabric. I was thinking thats an idea and plentiful at thrift stores. Have you tried that?

[@CatherineSews]

Oh, funny you should mention that. When I was shopping for these tops, I did pause to look at the scarves and thought that would be a great idea! I didn't find quite the right one, but I'll try again next time.

[@AvrilBavril]

Wow that looks so beautiful. I couldn’t imagine it would have ended so well. Love it.

[@theladybaltimore]

This was an especially good episode. Do more style changes, please.

[@davepearlblock]

Super ideas! Absolutely love what you always upcycle!!! - Pearl

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks so much!

[@Bemusedbeyondbelief]

Hi Catherine, love the tops. I have two lacy tank tops that I thrifted a while ago with the idea of wearing a cardigan with them, but now cannot wait to find something suitable to turn into sleeves for them! I am interested to know whether you have sewn seams on sheer fabric between tissue paper at all? I had never heard of this until recently.

[@CatherineSews]

Honestly, no, I've never felt the need to sew with tissue, but it probably works well!

[@mlsefton9124]

You are so patient with yourself & that slippery fabric. So wonderfully executed!

[@user-tk4uu5yz4i]

Girl you are GOOD!

[@chelle7_myblueeyeddog]

I was thinking the 2nd blouse was going to look "homemade" but it is gorgeous! Great job... On both.

[@PattiAiken]

YES it was a really good one. I don't like getting the cold shoulder so why would I want to wear one! lol Thank you Catherine, I learn so much from your videos. TY ❤❤

[@alisonking5730]

I am soooo appreciating the complaining. Thank you for keeping it real. I am new to sewing and just transformed a thrifted man's 4XL shirt into a rodeo dress for a performance. The sleeves were about 10 inches too long so I cut off the cuffs and reattached them where they belonged. Didn't bother about the placket. Used the excess fabric to fill in the sides at the bottom so the fringe would be level all the way around. Had great fun arranging the fringe at the front so it was symmetrically scalloped. A belt pulled everything in so it didn't look like a tent. I didn't worry too much because it only had to look good from the stage. I have a lot of projects for revamping clothes and you have inspired me. Thank you!

[@CatherineSews]

What a fun project! That sounds amazing! Thanks for the great comment.

[@sunreevehkt8842]

That was a magical fusion of two tops! Fantastic results, thanks for the video and the inspiration ❤

[@prosie1968]

I love to upcycle and those turned out so cute. That first blouse would have also worked as a flutter sleeve or short puffed sleeve. I loved them both!

[@elaine58100]

Amazing! It's surprising what you can do with a bit of patience 😜😜

[@myalabamahome1125]

You knocked it out of the park with this one for sure!

[@judithritner9696]

Thank you so much! Wow, your results are amazing 👏. Both alterations were so educational. You have helped me so very much. I am a long time thrifter, and love the treasure hunts. I don’t know if you remember me saying I found 3 pairs of linen pants, one being a very large man’s trousers. I took those apart and made a lovely pair of Tina Givens Oprah pants that I love. Another pair were women’s, but large for me. I added elastic to the waist and used another TG pattern to add darts at the hem edge with a bias binding to finish it. I love, love those too. I never could, or would have known how to approach the makeovers if not for your wonderful tutorials. You are a great instructor, you patiently cover all the little details that make it possible for me to attempt new things. Thank you again😊❤️

[@pippadawg7037]

Wow, that turned out just beautiful. I used to sew and I want to start back just to make things like that. I see beautiful couture clothing selling for nothing that needs just a little bit of tweaking to be wearable.

[@debraimmer260]

Especially loved the 2nd blouse

[@terrireid2992]

Thank you so much for the tip on measuring the underarm, extended up and not. What a difference this makes to my pattern understanding!

[@PatternStudio101]

Amazing job Catherine 😀 You're not only a great sewer but really creative!!!

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you, Jin! Much appreciated!

[@1wolfpup]

Wow, they re both so beautiful. Thanks for sharing it with us. They look fabulous on you!

[@CrisTina-tp2jg]

It is a good one! You have brought me joy. Excellent demonstration you have a lovely speaking voice and very clear with your instructions.

[@abaigealduda3241]

So so beautiful! I particularly love the top with the contrasting fitted bodice and very flowy sleeves. I enjoy how low-key you are while teaching and doing. Thank you very much your your videos and body of work!

[@CatherineSews]

Such a lovely comment, thank you!

[@betsybrittingham930]

I have absolutely always enjoyed watching your videos. This video was spot on! It shows other sewists that you have to have patience, and that it is OK to do hand sewing. Sewing has always been a great therapy of mine, and your video has shown others that it can be so rewarding!! Thank you so much for all you do. I will keep waiting for the next video.❤. Beautimous 🪡🧵💖

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks so much, Betsy!

[@QueenChatty1]

I recently lost weight and most of my clothes are just falling off now. Watching your videos has given me some ideas as to how to save some of my favourites. That beaded top is just beautiful! ❤

[@daxxydog5777]

I try to listen to myself when I get super frustrated, and then let it go and just hand sew the problem area!

[@amberlindsey7112]

I actually thought about doing that on a tiny little pair of overalls I'm making. For some reason the snap tape is just not liking me lol. I have sewn and unlocked so many many many times lol. Nothing is lining up. I think hand stitching might actually help

[@adrividrio]

Your design came out great! now I learned the french seam and how to make new sleeves to add on. Thank you thank you! Your explanations are soo stress free

[@rosac8168]

I’ve been semi altering my clothing for awhile but man you take them to whole new level you are such an inspiration I just love you they look awesome!

[@sunnyjaye9177]

Thank you Catherine, I needed that! I was stumped on material to purchase for sleeves for my project. I'm going to try thrifting something. Your blouse is a real beauty

[@geyoh2551]

I like the way you explain, not too long.

[@jesshothersall]

That was great. I loved the way you changed the shoulderless top to a gorgeous summer sleeveless, and realised while watching, that I'm wearing a fine cotton top I removed the sleeves from (very old fashioned, too puffy, too tight cuffs above the elbow) to make my own top sleeveless, and now love it, coincidence or what :). Also impressed by how you got the sleeves to fit so well, and how it's ok to just kind of draw the right shape for it to work out well. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@elizabethunruh4377]

Great ideas, Catherine! Thank you so much for sharing your ideas for upcycling. I've been watching your videos for about a month and I really enjoy your projects and lessons how to do them!

[@esperansaloughran693]

So fun to watch you! And i soon will have to tackle my bear...sewing a ruched tapestry sleeve to a jean vest.

[@lilaholland5764]

Both tops turned out so lovely...

[@DH-ku6qg]

Absolutely beautiful results! And I learn so much from watching you. Thank you.

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you so much!

[@campbellfamily2064]

I just want to say a huge thank you. I have learnt so much just by watching what you do. You gave out so many useful tips that I know I will use. I've only just discovered your channel and I'm so glad I fud. Thank you 🎉❤

[@CatherineSews]

Thank you! Happy to have you on board!

[@mary-louw2946]

So pretty... the tops and you! Great video tips and tricks and a couple giggles too!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks so much🥰

[@janiewarre9941]

This is my favorite that you have put together. I have learned so much from you. Thank you for sharing.

[@CatherineSews]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@trish3580]

One more thing...maybe it is my computer but the links aren't going anywhere for me and thought I'd mention it just in case. I've been clicking the Canadian links...and so lovely to see you are in Canada!

[@CatherineSews]

Thanks for mentioning that, but I just checked and they all work for me! I wonder if anyone else has the same problem? I’m not an Amazon affiliate, but I like having the links there because people often ask about my tools.

[@maryannecadd796]

I stumbled onto your channel because I was looking for information on how to add a sleeve to a sleeveless dress. It's for a special occasion and I found the perfect dress but it was sleeveless, and I don't like my bare arms. What a great tutorial. I love the modifications on both pieces you shared. I especially liked your tip about using the elastic band on the wrist to measure the length of the arm. Thank you for the clear explanation and for sharing. I am a new fan and subscriber!!!!!

[@CatherineSews]

That’s so great to hear! Very happy to have you on board!

[@IMOO1896]

I love how you think as you go.

[@vikkibendle1749]

Just lovely and I like how to fix the beading too!

[@biowellnesslifestyle5842]

Thanks for sharing. Love the one with sleeves. Upcycling gives you a unique looks😊

[@susanbanack4855]

I love your talent and that you share your joy of it with us